Volunteering at Cheka

One of the more obvious reasons why people volunteer is because they want to do something good for others. However, there are lots of other benefits of volunteering, be it at Cheka School or anywhere; here are just a few.

Make a Difference

Volunteering is a wonderful character building experience. It allows you to become more aware of the problems facing the world and broadens your perspectives. After returning home, volunteers are usually more independent, adventurous and courageous. They are also more likely to volunteer again in the future.

Develop Skills

Not a teacher? No problem! We encourage you to use your unique skills to help others. At Cheka School, it is not just teaching talent we need. Volunteers who specialize in plumbing, construction, gardening, healthcare, musicians, artists etc. have amazing gifts to offer.

Volunteer work is a great way to gain experience in a broad range of fields. It can help you develop leadership, team-work, orginization, communication, administration, problem-solving skills and more. If you volunteer in a country with a foreign language, the ability to communicate effectively across cultural barriers is also a valuable skill.

Build Lifelong Friendships

Making friends with your fellow volunteers is also a strong motive for many of those who choose to volunteer abroad. Volunteers are bonded by their experience and many make lifelong friendships that come from working through difficulties and exploring new things together. Many of our former volunteers are still great friends and continue to keep in touch, some traveling across the globe for visits!

Have Fun!

Volunteering can be strenuous, messy and frustrating, but it is also great fun and extremely rewarding. You have the opportunity to meet new families, try interesting foods, shop at traditional markets, use local transportation, touch lives and see people smile! The experience is unlike any other and will be memorable and life changing!

On campus, Cheka has a two bedroom volunteer house with electricity, pluming, a kitchen and living room. We have 24-hour security and a cook/cleaner are available upon request. The cost per week is $75 (£45). Additionally, if you raise $500 for Cheka School, you receive a free week in the house!

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Activities

Arusha is a bustling city full of many fun things to do! There are delicious restaurants to try, concerts, shopping, and much more! We can help you arrange a visit to Arusha National Park, waterfall tours, climbing Mount Meru and the Snake Park. Many volunteers use the weekend or long school breaks to explore Tanzania including trips to Zanzibar, Mount Kilimanjaro and safari in the National Parks.

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Travel

Volunteers typically fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). We can arrange for a safe and friendly driver to meet you there upon arrival. A guided tour of the city will be given to all new arrivals. You will have a full orientation of the school, including a series of home-visits, where you will meet students and families in the community.

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Safety

Arusha is a welcoming and friendly city. Volunteers shouldn’t have any issues with personal safety if they follow a few precautions. Make sure you do not travel alone after dark. Be sure to use Cheka-approved taxi drivers whenever possible, avoiding motorcycles. Keep all valuables out of sight (phone, camera, money).

Interested in Volunteering?

If you are interested in learning more about volunteering at Cheka School, send us an inquiry and we will get back to you as soon as we can!